Taylor, Mayfield situation draws similarities to Bledsoe, Brady (both against the Jets too)

Flashback to Sept. 23, 2001, when Drew Bledsoe’s late-game injury against the New York Jets paved the way for the start of New England’s Brady era.

Bledsoe suffered both a concussion and internal bleeding when Mo Lewis viciously slammed into the left side of his chest as he was running toward the first down marker.

Ever since New York Jets linebacker Mo Lewis collided into Drew Bledsoe that day near the Patriots sideline in Foxboro, changing the course of NFL history while launching a dynasty, the impact of that hit is still felt even today.

Bledsoe's injuries opened the door for Tom Brady to play the final 2:16 of the 10-3 loss to the Jets, and though Brady did not save the day for New England, it has been his team and division ever since.

Baker Mayfield would get his chance to showcase his immense talent in Thursday night’s match-up against the New York Jets in similar circumstances.

The No. 1 overall pick entered the game late in the second quarter after Tyrod Taylor left for the locker room to be evaluated for a concussion.

Mayfield provided an immediate resurgence of energy to a stagnant Browns offense, completing 17 of 23 passes for 201 yards in the Browns comeback victory. Taylor finished the game completing 4 of 14 passes for only 19 yards while being sacked four times.

Mayfield delivered on what many of his predecessors failed to do, simply win a football game. Although Hue Jackson hasn’t decided on who will start for the Browns moving forward, Thursday night’s game may just have been the start of the Mayfield era in Cleveland.

Screenshot of a Baker Mayfield GIF